WBO Junior Flyweight champion, Jonathan “Bomba” Gonzalez of Caguas, Puerto Rico, is set to make his third title defense. However, there's been a change in his opponent. Gonzalez will now face Nicaraguan contender, WBO #14 Gerardo “Cascabel” Zapata.
The bout is scheduled for Friday, October 27th, at the Alexis Arguello Sports Complex in Managua, Nicaragua. Zapata stepped in as a replacement for Leyman Benavides, who fell ill and had to withdraw from the fight. Tuto Zabala Jr., President of ASB, mentioned that Zapata had been training for a rematch in the co-main event, so fans can expect a competitive bout.
Gonzalez is familiar with challenges and has previously faced opponents with styles similar to Zapata's. He successfully defended his title against former Filipino Olympian Mark Anthony Barriga. Speaking about the upcoming fight, Gonzalez said, "We have seen the tape on Zapata. He's a southpaw, but he doesn't bring anything new. On October 27th, I'll still be the WBO champion."
On the other hand, Gerardo “Cascabel” Zapata, hailing from San Juan Del Sur, is excited about the opportunity to fight in his hometown. After a closely contested draw against Azael Villar in Panama and a controversial DQ against Rene Santiago in the Dominican Republic, Zapata is determined to prove himself. "Destiny has placed me here," Zapata remarked. "I won't disappoint my people."
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